The U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia E. Palmer, has spearheaded multiple projects aimed at bolstering maritime security in the region. These initiatives, which received funding exceeding $6 million, were commissioned during Ambassador Palmer’s visit to the Ghana Navy Training Command (NAVTRAC) in the Volta Region. The Chief of Defense Staff, senior officers from the Ghana Navy, Ghana Armed Forces, and Defense Ministry joined her on this significant occasion.
Ghana’s maritime security capabilities will receive substantial support through the six projects funded by the United States. Given the vital role played by maritime activities in the Gulf of Guinea, safeguarding commercial operations, such as shipping and fishing, is of paramount importance.
During her visit, Ambassador Palmer highlighted the significance of the $48 million security assistance provided to the Ghana Armed Forces this year, with a substantial portion allocated to enhance the capabilities of the Ghana Navy. The persistent threats of piracy and illegal fishing in the Gulf of Guinea have posed challenges to Ghana’s security and economic development. By ensuring better protection for shipping, the region can establish more reliable supply chains, fostering shared prosperity.
The $6.4 million in U.S. funding will primarily focus on empowering the Ghana Navy Special Boat Squadron (SBS) to expand its offshore capabilities. Additionally, it will facilitate training programs and naval infrastructure projects at NAVTRAC. The specific projects include:
- Provision of two 38-foot DEFENDER Class Safe Boats for the SBS, along with a U.S. Marine Forces Africa Equipping Kit designed for these vessels.
- Replacement of the NAVTRAC pontoon pier.
- Construction of a mobile training camp to enable the SBS to train in diverse maritime environments.
- Deployment of a persistent presence Engineering “Seabees” Detachment from U.S. Naval Forces Africa, responsible for completing naval infrastructure construction projects and providing technical support to the Ghana Navy.
- Joint training opportunities, including a team of U.S. Special Operations Forces Africa Combat Divers who will conduct training exercises alongside the SBS at NAVTRAC.
- A joint initiative to construct new classroom space at the Nutekpor Basic School, located near NAVTRAC.
The collaboration between the United States and Ghana in addressing regional security concerns, joint training, and the exchange of best practices remains robust. Notably, Ghana successfully hosted FLINTLOCK 23, a large-scale multinational military exercise led by U.S. AFRICOM. This historic event featured the first-ever Maritime Special Operations Task Unit at NAVTRAC. Additionally, the African Lion and Obangame Express exercises further strengthened the partnership between the two nations.
The ongoing efforts to enhance maritime security in Ghana demonstrate the commitment of both countries to fostering stability, promoting economic growth, and safeguarding the Gulf of Guinea’s vital commercial activities. With continued collaboration, it is expected that Ghana’s maritime capabilities will further strengthen, enabling the nation to effectively counter maritime threats and contribute to regional prosperity.
source- myjoyonlin
